It happens, and I know how you feel as the first race I did I was dropped as well...

find fast groups, most have training "race pace" rides on closed courses or what not that will let you get the feel of a race, I know it was a real eye opener going into the first corner with riders 360 deg around me.

it is said to be "easier" up front as the surges aren't as large, in the back you have the slinky affect as well as depending on tight turns stacking up...

most crashes will also happen in the back, try and stay in the top 1/3 of the pack.

Chad